DISCLAIMER I DO NOT OWN BROTHERS CONFLICT IN ANYWAY SHAPE OR FORM
"Jeremy seemed nice, and Paula, she was cool. Oh and that one girl, Chelsea! She can come!"
"Who can come to what?" Ema asked as she came into a gathering room where she saw her grandfather, mother and Masaomi with Wataru making a list of sorts.
"We're organizing a little get together/sleep over for Wataru the night of the going away party at the Wallflower with some of the children he met at the ball," King Stephon explained kindly, "just so he doesn't feel too left out."
"It's my own private going away party!" Wataru bragged, "of course you're welcome to come Big Sister!"
"That's sweet of you to invite me Wataru," said Ema, "maybe I'll stick around a little bit before attending the one at the Wallflower. What all were you thinking of doing?"
"Grandfather says we can watch any movies we want!" Wataru started to list off.
"Age appropriate of course!" Miwa was quick to mentioned.
"Right," Wataru muttered, "but he says there's a room we can set up a few bouncy castles and things like that! And he'll rent us an indoor merry-go-round! And some of those personal riding animals! Plus there'll be a popcorn machine and a soda fountain, and make your own burger station!"
"Oh my, this does sound exciting!" Ema said, "You're really able to do all this grandfather?"
"Well, I may be going slightly overboard," King Stephon admitted, "but you say no to that face!"
Wataru giggled.
"Oh it's easy actually," Miwa said as she leaned over to him, "no candy or ice cream at this thing!"
"Oh mom!" Wataru whined.
"She didn't mention anything about cake," Masaomi mentioned smugly.
"Don't you start!" Miwa warned.
"Actually, I have to agree with your mother lad," King Stephon spoke up, "I think what we have is good enough. But maybe we can have a little cake or even cupcakes."
"Cupcakes might work, one per child," Miwa allowed.
"There you go," King Stephon said, "so let's get back to making that list! Was there anyone else you remember meeting?"
"Who were those twin girls with the black hair?" Wataru asked.
"Maggie and Maddie? Oh Jack's daughters, yes you can invite them," King Stephon said.
"Can I make a suggestion?" Masaomi asked, "I know you've never met him Wataru, but I was wondering if we could invite Luke Spallman to the party? He's the son of Michael Spallman, the mayor of Almara, the place we're hoping to build Ema's hospital. The boy has hypothyroidism and it's sometimes hard for him to attend such functions."
Everyone looked at Wataru.
"It's your party son, you can decide," King Stephon assured Wataru.
"I guess he can come," Wataru agreed.
"Was there anyone else from your hospital meeting you'd like to encourage Wataru to invite?" King Stephon asked.
"Well, maybe this other girl named Candi, she's in a wheelchair herself," Masaomi said.
"Oh, yeah she can come!" Wataru insisted.
"That's nice of you dear," Miwa praised.
"I wonder how old Mayor Stuart's daughters are. It might be nice to invite them if they're age appropriate," Ema mentioned.
"Who?" Wataru asked.
"Mayor Peter Stuart, Mayor of Onzlo who saved me from attack during the reception," Ema explained.
"Oh yeah, his daughters can come if they really want to," Wataru allowed.
"We'll find out if they'd like to," King Stephon assured him, "that might be a good enough list."
"Yeah, I think so," Miwa agreed.
"Yes, don't want to make it too crazy," Masaomi added.
"Ok," Wataru allowed. He suddenly ran over and hugged King Stephon. "Thanks again for this Grandfather!"
"Of course son, I want your last days here to be happy."
"Oh it will be!" Wataru said happily.
"Well in the meantime, it's time you got to bed!" Miwa ordered.
"Fine, fine," Wataru said as he dashed out of room with his guest list.
"He sure seems excited about this," Masaomi said as he followed out.
"I almost feel guilty about taking him home," Miwa said.
"Well hopefully he can return whenever he wishes," King Stephon said kindly, "god knows I want him to visit again and often!"
"Speaking of home, and visits, how did your trip to see Louis' real family go?" Ema asked.
"His grandmother's something to be desired," Miwa muttered, "but the rest were nice and they were all so happy to see Louis. It was so sweet and caring to see how much they were willing to embrace him and welcome him back."
"Oh, how wonderful!" Ema said happily. "I'm happy for him! Where is he now?"
"Lord Markus help set up some family movies with his parents from Mr. Arku to show him," King Stephon told her.
"Oh how sweet!" Ema cooed, "I wish I could see them!"
"Maybe some other time," said King Stephon, "I wouldn't be surprised if Mr. Arku had some of your mother and maybe one or two with your father."
"Really?" Ema said smiling at the idea with delight.
"Well I should get to bed too," Miwa said, "take care your majesty and Ema dear."
"Good night mother," Ema said as her mom walked out. She looked over at her grandfather. "You seem more excited with the idea of Wataru's party Grandfather," she said.
"Well it's been a while since I've had a chance to spoil a child. Not that I spoiled your mother or her cousins too much," King Stephon said.
Ema beemed at him then sighed, "Grandfather, about what we talked about earlier, with me being officially crownd princess; how soon could we get it going, if I said yes?"
"Why do you ask?" King Stephon asked.
"Well I was just talking, maybe it'd be nice to have the ceremony while all my brothers are here," Ema explained.
"That could be a thing," King Stephon said, "of course I'd understand if you wanted to wait a little while and we can definitely arrange for your brothers to return for the ceremony. We won't do anything until you're ready."
Ema smiled and nodded, "well maybe I am."
King Stephon walked over to her and tipped her chin. He stared into her eyes.
"Hmm," he murmured, "well you have the determined look in your eye, that's for sure. You do sound like you're ready for the most part."
"But?" Ema asked.
"Well," King Stephon twitched his mouth, "now that Robert really is out of the way, there's a little less urgency to maybe replace him. I kind of like the idea of taking it easy for a while. Relax, really enjoy my time with you and your brothers. Focus on other things within the kingdom that could use my attention."
Ema nodded, "I understand," she said softly.
"But?" King Stephon proded back.
"Ever since Rose mentioned the rumors it just made me think, maybe I can do more as the actual crown princess, especially for you."
"I see, I suppose you make a good point as well. Just the same, we shall wait and see where the path leads," King Stephon said, as he tapped her nose and headed out, "good night dear."
"Good night Grandfather," Ema said as she walked out of the room herself.
She didn't get too far before she heard noise coming her way and looked behind her to see Louis and the Arku family coming down. Louis had his arm around Sophie. He paused when he saw Ema not too far ahead.
"Oh Hello Chi!" he said happily.
"Hello Louis!" Ema said as she hurried over and hugged her brother, "I'm happy to hear your reunion with your mother's family went well!"
"Yes, I even got to see the chatue my mother was supposed to inherit. It's technically mine now and mom has mentioned her desier to maybe refurbish it, put it back to it's orginal condition," Louis explained as he led Ema on, putting his other arm around her.
"Oh how wonderful, I'm sure mama will do it justice!" Ema said, "oh, did you hear how it's been decided to throw the girls going home with our brothers a going away party?"
"I think I heard Wataru mentioned it," Louis said.
"And that it's being held at that famous club, The Wallflower?" Ema added.
"That I didn't hear," Louis joked, "but sounds amazing."
"Also, Grandfather's offered to throw Wataru his own going away party with several children he met at the ball," Ema also said.
"Oh, that'll be fun," Sophie said.
"I remember when your mother would hold parties here," Wendy spoke up.
"You got to come to them Mrs. Arku?" Ema asked.
"Oh of course, she always invite me and my cousins," Wendy said, "as well as Louis' father."
"Were you and my mother ever close?" Ema asked.
"We got along okay, we weren't super friends but we definitely didn't hate each other," Wendy explained, "we just had different likes and intrests. But I did admire her as a princess and a leader."
"I don't suppose you have any home movies with Princess Yolanda, Mr. Arku?" Louis asked.
"Not along the same lines of the ones I have with your parents," Luke said, "but there's plenty back there in the media room. That's where they store lots of different videos of the royal family over the years, both historical and personal."
"Would they have any footage of when my mother was crowned the offcial princess?" Ema suddenly asked eagerly.
"Sure, hers, your Grandfather's, as well as his crowing as king. Also your great-grandfather's and I think they even have footage of when your great-great-grandmother was crowned queen," Luke said.
Really?" Ema said eagerly, "well I'd like to maybe see those too, but I think I'd want to see my mother's first. Maybe tomorrow."
"Well, we can do it right now if you're up to it," Louis said.
"But aren't you all tired?" Ema asked.
"We can tough it out enough to let you see it, if you're eager to, your highness," Luke insisted, "that is one of the perks of being a princess."
"I'll go see if Uncle's available, he can probably find the tape a little easier," Wendy said.
She hurried off while Louis led Ema back to the media room with Sophie and her father.
"Are you sure this is alright?" Ema asked.
"Don't worry Chi," Louis insisted.
"You know, this is going to sound corny but, your mother's coronation was where I first met Sophie's mother," Luke said.
"You did?" Ema asked.
"I was helping with filming the ceremony while Wendy was in attendance. I want to say it was love at first sight but, I'm pretty sure my wife saw me as little more than an easy replaceable stage hand for the longest time," Luke said.
"I did not!" Wendy argued as she walked in with Lord Markus, "I just didn't want to appear too eager!"
"It's true, could tell you had a crush from the start," Lord Markus teased as he walked over to a cupboard and opened it, thumbing through it. "of course, while we're on the subject of bringing people together, did you know Princess Ema that it was Louis's grandmother was who brought your own grandparents together?"
"What?" Ema and Louis both asked.
"Oh yes, Nicollet was the one who introduced the two of them. It happen when your grandma Wilma was a young woman. She was working as an intern for her aunt who was an interior designer herself, much like your mom Miwa."
"Oh, wow, what a coincidence," said Louis.
"One day," Lord Markus continued, "Wilma was sent on an errand for one of her aunt's clients to get a tea set. However, when Wilma came to the store to purchase the set, the clerks weren't very customer friendly towards her. They seemed to think that because she wasn't dressed like some of their other fancier customers, they didn't have to serve her and very rudely made her leave.
As luck would have it though, Nicollet and her mother, Lady Christine, happen to be at the store at the same time. Both witness the rude behavior the clerks demonstrated towards Wilma and were both appalled and sympathetic for the poor girl.
They followed her out of the store, and found her a little ways down the block, near tears. So the two offered to take her to a cafe for a cup of tea to help calm down. While they were there, Nicollet and Wilma began to like each other, and started becoming fast friends. To the point that after they had finished their tea, Nicollet and her mother helped Wilma find a different shop that sold the same tea set and sold for a much cheaper price.
Then, as they set about to help escort Wilma back to her job, they passed a clothing store with a lovely dress in its window. Wilma actually paused to look at it and Christine decided to buy for Wilma. That's just the kind of woman she was. Often got her in trouble too.
But, she still went and bought the dress and Wilma looked so nice in it, that Christine insisted on keeping Wilma in the dress and taking her back to the orginal shop that had chased the poor girl out to see if they would recognize her."
"And did they?" Ema asked eagerly.
"Not at first, they actually started to treat as though she was a princess herself, trying to butter her up and such. Then Lady Christine went and revealed who Wilma was and completely humiliated the rude clerks and she threatened to take action against their earlier behavior."
"Wow," Ema said impressed.
"But how did that lead to my grandmother introducing Queen Wilma to Grandfather?" Louis asked.
"Well, after they're "fun" in the store, Christine and Nicollet offered to take Wilma back to her aunt's to help explain why she was so late getting back. And even after that, Nicollet invited Wilma to join her at an upcoming tea party being held by King Stephon's sisters Claudia and Lydia at the palace.
She didn't exactly get along with her cousins. I personally think it was because the princesses were jealous of Nicollet, both with her beauty and the freedom she had compared to them. They usually stuck in the back at such functions, often alone and I'm sure Nicollet was hoping to have a friend during such a thing.
Now you should also know your highness, that your two great-uncles were quite the little trouble makers and loved nothing more than to cause a stir at social functions their sisters threw. And this tea party was no exception. In addition, your grandfather always felt it was his responsibility to keep his brothers in line and referend whatever chaos they caused.
So in this case Prince George and Prince Howard decided to kick their soccer ball into the party, causing some slight havoc. And Stephon was quick to run in after them and make them leave. And while he was wrangling up his brothers in addition to apologizing to his sister and their guests, he saw your grandmother for the first time and was instantly attracted to her.
So much in fact that he bribed his brothers to cause a stir within the party again just so he would have an excuse to go back in and "stop" them while getting a second glance at Wilma.
Thus as time went on, anytime Stephon found out that Nicollet had invited Wilma to something, wheather it be a big social gathering or a simple chance to hang out, he'd try using any excuse he could to join or at least check in on them, just so he could see Wilma.
I think it actually annoyed Nicollet over how often Stephon would interfere with her when she was attempting to spend time with her friend.
But in the end, was she able to put it all behind her and let Grandfather court his love?" Louis asked.
"Well yes, and Nicollet and Wilma stayed friends for years after. She was even Wilma's matron of honor at her wedding."
Louis and Ema shared a happy smile, pleased to hear that their grandparents had been close friends.
"Ah here it is," Markus suddenly said, as he pulled out a tape and handed it to Luke. Luke then quickly set to work getting it played. Soon the image of the indoor of a grand scale cathedral was shown, with Ema's mother slowly walking down the center aisle in a grand procession. She had a serious look on her face as she walked and was wearing a one of the most beautiful white-black sequence gown Ema had seen. The kind found in story books.
Soon Yolanda reached the alter where King Stephon stood, himself dressed up in proper attire, complete with the royal crown atop of his head.
"My, Grandfather was quite handsome in his younger years," Louis said.
"He still is," Ema insisted with a smile as she saw her mother bow in front of the king.
"Princess Yolanda, you have come here today to pledge yourself to serve, guid and reign over the country of Elence. Do you accept the duty and responsibilities of such a position?" King Stephon asked.
"I do, my king," Yolanda replied.
King Stephon then stepped aside and let Yoland move forward towards a waiting throne. There stood a bishop who cleared who next spoke to her.
"Princess Yolanda, do you swear before god and your fellow countrymen to serve them as they would serve you?"
"I do,"
"Do you swear that you shall never abuse, misuse or misrepresent the power and authority that shall be bestowed upon you this day, in any way shape or form?"
"I swear"
"Do you swear to rule and guide with dignity, fairness and thoughtfulness for as long as you maintain such power?"
"I do,"
"Do you swear to lead by example, to demonstrate the ways of wellbeing and content for all those who would serve you and look to you for guidance?"
"I do,"
"Then, you may take your seat," the bishop instructed. Yolanda then went and sat in the empty throne. Anothet bishop opened a white case and the bishop who had asked the questions pulled out a sceptre and held it out to Yolanda.
"Princess Yolanda, with this sceptre, I bestow upon you the duty to lead and guide your people as princess."
Next, the bishop took out a beautiful yet simple silver tiarra and held above Yolanda's head.
"And with crown, I hereby crown you Princess Yolanda the 1st of Elence," the bishop said as he gently placed the tiarra on Yolanda's head.
Yolanda nodded and stood, walking closer to where her father.
"I am Elence and Elence is me, I shall rule and guide her with dignity, strength, courage, valor, and compassion for long as I shall live."
"Long Live Princess Yolanda the 1st of Elence," the bishop announced.
"Long Live Princess Yolanda the 1st of Elence," echoed throughout the chapel by everyone in attendance.
King Stephon then took his daughter's hand and help escort her down the asile back towards the doors.
Soon the screen faded to black.
"Is that it?" Ema asked.
"Of this tape," Lord Markus explained, "there's more footage of what happens afterwards. I have that too if you wish to see it as well."
"What does happen afterwards?" Ema asked.
"There's footage of your mother and grandfather riding in procession on their horses, and then more of them once they arraive back at the palace and stand on the balcony, appearing to the public," Markus explained.
Ema nodded before a new video did start to play, showing what Lord Markus had just described. Everyone looked back and saw Luke at the controls, who merely shrugged his shoulders.
Ema turned back and watched the footage. Yolanda looks so professional and confident as she road along side the king. Even doing a perfect wave while holding the horse's reigns. The horse itself looked almost exactly like Miss Shadow and was just as beautiful.
She watched some more, up until they finally arraived at the palace balcony, waving. Many among them looked familiar, just in their younger days. Regina and Wilton, Jackson and Jared, Revern Howard, even Walter and Robert were there.
"So that's how it goes?" Ema said out loud.
"Taking notes for when it's your turn, Princess Ema?" Lord Markus asked.
"My friend Rose mentioned that the staff is spreading rumors that Grandfather is getting ready to make it so. And it got me to thinking maybd I should while my brothers are all still here so they can take part," Ema explained.
"Oh Chi, you know they'd move heaven and earth to be a part of anything you found important like being officially crown," Louis assured her.
"Well I can at least understand why you'd want to not make that happen," Markus joked.
"Thanks for showing me these Lord Markus," Ema said, giving him a small kiss on the cheek.
"Anything for my beautiful princess," Markus assured her.
"You too, Mr. Arku," Ema also mentioned.
"No sweat," Luke said.
"I think it is time we got to bed, Chi," Louis said with a yawn. He reached over and hugged Sophie. "See you tomorrow?"
"But of course," Sophie said. She waved good bye to Ema as well as she left with her mother. Markus and Luke helped put away the tapes and equipment before following after the ladies.
Louis put his arm around Ema and led her towards the bed chambers.
"So, Chi, do you really want to be a princess?" Louis asked.
"I am a princess no matter what," Ema said with a slight giggle. Louis nodded with a smirk. "I just want to follow tradition, make sure the public knows I'm not going to make any serious changes to their home and ways of life. Plus I know it'll make grandfather happy and nothing makes me happier right now than seeing him happy."
"I see, well I'm glad you care so much about him, Chi," Louis praised, "but don't forget he wants the same for you. So don't do it because you think it's what he wants. Because it's not fully what he wants."
"You're right," Ema agreed.
"Well, sleep on it Chi. We've had a long day and you can ise some time to think," Louis advised.
"I will, thank you Louis," Ema said. She and Louis shared a big hug before both made it to their bedrooms.
Ema laid down and looked at the ceiling still thinking about the whole offcial princess ceremony.
'What am I going to do about that?" Ema found herself asking out loud.
"Well as a princess and in general, you should do what you think is right"
Ema quickly sat up and saw what looked like her birth mother and father standing next to her, and they were all under a Mabee tree.
"Mama? Papa?"
Both her parents smiled at her.
"Just look at you! You've turned out just how I pictured you would! So regal, so kind! Even great-great-grandfather Stephon would have been impressed with you!"
"I'm just glad you grew up happy and healthy and that Rintaro took such good care of you like he promised," Kenji mentioned, "I am sorry about that sweetie. Sorry I made them not tell you the truth. I only wanted to keep you safe."
"I understand, Papa, especially after my first experience here," Ema assured her father.
"And now dear? How do you feel?" Yolanda asked.
"Oh even with the bad things happening, I like it here," Ema insisted.
"So, what do you feel is right then in regards to being crowned princess?"
"Well, I kind of feel like I should get it done now," Ema said, "especially with the passing of Lady Lilac. I can't help but think she might have like to see it. And even if they can come back, it might be hard to arrange their schedule to come back for the ceremony. Or Mama ana Papa. Err, I mean...,"
"Don't worry, we don't have any problems with you calling Rintaro and Miwa Mama and Papa," Kenji said. "and you would be right. It might be hard to get everyone back together, even the ones that are staying here."
"So, do you think I should do it now?" Ema asked.
"Can't say for sure, we just wanted to help you decide what's the right choice for you. It was hard for me to decide when I was ready too, and I had a lot more time to prepare than you did," Yolanda explained.
"Have we been helpful?" Kenji asked.
"Yes," Ema said with love, "I just need to convince Grandfather I'm ready."
"Oh that's easy enough," said Yolanda, "you just look him stright in the eye and say, 'Grandfather, I want to become the rightful princess. I'm ready!"
"And if that doesn't work, point out that you'd like to help perform the knighting ceremony for the two men that helped you during you're attacks. The mayor and councilman, they helped you and your family. You should be the one that knights them," Kenji mentioned.
"Yes, there is that," Yolanda agreed, "but whatever happens, we couldn't be prouder of you Ema!"
"Your mother's right! Our little princess had become a real princess in the eyes of the world," Kenji said, "that's the kind of thing that would make a parent proud! A little more jealous and the need to help protect. But still proud."
Ema started to get a little teary eyed.
"Thank you for coming back and helping me with this Mama and Papa!" she said as she felt her parents wrap her in their arms.
"We'll always be there for you Ema dear!"
"Always sweetie!"
Ema woke up to the sound of a happy hum and opened her eyes to see Jane standing over with a tender smile. She started to look embarrassed when she realized Ema was looking up at her.
"Sorry your highness!" she said quickly, "it's just, you had the most sweetest and prettiest smiles. It was cute to look at. I hope that doesn't make me sound weird!"
"No it's fine," Ema assured her as she sat up. She smiled as she watched as Jane went about getting some clothes ready for Ema to wear.
"Jane?" she asked, "this may be a dumb question, but you didn't see my mother's princess coronation, did you?"
"Oh no, your highness," Jane replied, "I don't think my parents were even together at the time." Ema nodded.
"Why do you ask?"
"I just wanted to know how you felt when you saw it, if you had," Ema said as she got out of bed.
"Oh, well I will say, I've seen the footage of it many times," Jane quickly mentioned, "they used to show it in the anniversary of the ceremony after she disappeared in a sort of tribute/reminder of Princess Yolanda. To let people have hope that she'll return someday."
"Oh really?" Ema said. She smiled at the thought, "what was your favorite part?"
"Honestly? I think when the bishop held the tiarra over her head and crown her. I don't know what, but that part always stood out," Jane explained.
Ema nodded, "thank you, I'll get dressed once I've bathed."
"Yes your highness," Jane said as she bowed.
As Ema came out of her room after bathing and dressing, heading to the dinging room like she usually did, she was a little surprised to come across Elizabeth. She was sitting by herself going over a few notes and taking sips from a tea cup on a nearby table.
"Good Morning Miss Smith," Ema greeted her.
"Oh good morning Princess Ema," Elizabeth said as she looked up.
"What brings you here so early?" Ema asked.
"I'm here to collect Kaname for his lecture today," Elizabeth explained.
"Oh is that today?" Ema said out loud. "Um, Miss Smith? Or may I call you Elizabeth?'
"Whatever you'd like, your highness," Elizabeth insisted.
"Thank you Elizabeth, um may I ask you something?"
"Absolutely your highness," Elizabeth said quickly.
"Did you ever see my mother's princess coronation?" Ema asked.
Elizabeth had to ponder the notion for a moment, "I think I did. I have a vague memory of it. If I remember right, it was a little before my father left. I kind of remember him being mad about not getting an invitation to the ceremony or something like that. I sort of remember watching and hearing my dad say something to my mom that it was her fault or something that he didn't get it or something."
"Oh, I'm sorry," Ema quickly said.
"Oh it's okay, Elizabeth insisted, "but I do remember the one moment when the bishop held the tiarra over your mother's head. That little moment seemed so exciting to me. It's just one of those things nearly all little girls dream about when they imagine being a princess."
Ema nodded, "that does make sense," she agreed.
"Ah, my love! Are you ready so be swept away with tales of romance?" Kaname said as he suddenly approached the pair.
"If by that am I ready to take you to your lecture, than yes," Elizabeth said as she stood up and put things together.
"Good luck Kaname," Ema cheered her brother.
"Luck is for those who have not been blessed by the gods, sweet princess," Kaname said with a wink. "Of course, if you felt compelled to give me a kiss for good luck, I wouldn't object."
That suddenly earned him a yank on his ear by Elizabeth.
"Excuse me?!" She snapped, "you don't go and declare me your love and then go and flirt with another woman in front of me! Even if she is the princess!"
"Oh, I'm sorry!" Kaname tried to say as Elizabeth yanked him down the hallway by his ear.
"You do realize you owe me dinner for this right?" Ema heard Elizabeth threatened as she dragged him.
"Yes my love," Kaname tried to say in his usual smooth tone.
Ema shook his head.
"She certainly will give Kaname a run for his money, that's for sure," she heard Ukyo say. Ema turned around and saw him standing behind him, dressed in a suit and with his briefcase. He smiled down at Ema, "but something tells me he'll enjoy every step of it. He's just that perverted."
Ema blushed in embarrassment.
"Are you heading to the House of Council?" she asked.
"Not right away, Erica and Hannah are coming here first to deliver something for Hikaru, then we'll be going to the House of Council together," Ukyo said.
Ema nodded as she walked with her older brother, "is it about the housing project?"
"Yes, they're going to show Hikaru the amount it'll take to help with the orginal building if he's still hoping to help with that," Ukyo explained, "Plus I think Mother has expressed interest in helping with the project."
"Oh, I hope it goes forward smoothly," Ema said sincerely, "I'm sure both Mr. Holms and the ladies like Mrs. Bubbly a piece of mind."
Ukyo nodded in agreement, "I should also mention that the hospital project is going well too. Practically all the towns are on board for it."
"Practically?" Ema asked.
"One or two still feel slightly hesitant over the idea, for various reasons. But Erica and Hannah assured that's typical and that there's is a part of them that like the over all idea," Ukyo explained.
Ema nodded, "Is there anything more I can do?"
"Probably not, your highness," Ema and Ukyo heard Erica say. They both turned around to see her and Hannah coming their way. Ema couldn't help but notice as Hannah moved over and take Ukyo's hand, and Ukyo smiling at the gesture.
Ema quickly turned her attention back to Erica.
"These concerns the few hold-outs have at this point are kind of personal, and it's most likely they won't go away until possibly the hospital is built. All we can do is keep trying to assure them that it'll be a good idea and keep the towns that support it on board," Erica continued to explain, "but the amount of support we're getting from the towns that do, and several other members of Council and Parliament, I have a good feeling we'll breaking ground soon."
"Wonderful!" Ema cheered as she clapped with delight.
"What's wonderful? More news on the party?!" Wataru asked as he suddenly appeared among the group.
"Not everything is about your party Wataru," Masaomi said as he too joined the group. He moved and put his arm around Erica who smiled at him.
"We were talking about your sister's hospital project and how well it's progressing," Erica told Wataru.
"Oh cool!" Wataru said, "Big Brother Masa asked me if I could invite some of the kids involved with that to my going away party!"
"Oh? That sounds exciting," Erica said.
"Yeah, want to hear what all we're going to have?!" Wataru asked eagerly.
"Sure, but let's walk and talk. We need to find your brother Hikaru before we head to work," Erica suggested.
"And we should still get to breakfast," Masaomi said.
As the group walked, Wataru kept boasting and bragging what was going to happen at his party.
"This sounds really nice," Erica said, "bet some of my nieces and nephews would like to attend such a party."
"Could we invite them Masa?" Wataru asked.
"Well, we can ask Grandfather if we can a few more names to the list," Masaomi assured his brother.
"If it's much of a problem, don't worry about it," Erica whispered to him.
"Oh no, I'm sure it wouldn't hurt in the slightest," Masaomi assured her.
"Oh by the way, I got your suggestion boxes for the children's hospital set up at the different towns, like at libraries and schools and such," Erica told him.
"Thank you," Masaomi said as he squeezed her a little tighter.
"Um, Miss Tanner, or Erica if that's alright?" Ema suddenly spoke up.
"Yes your highness?" Erica asked looking back at her.
"I was just wondering, do you remember seeing my mother's princess coronation ceremony?" Ema asked.
"Yeah, I did, it was a little after my parents got a divorce, and I was staying with my mom. I remember sitting on her lap and feeling impressed by how powerful the princess looked. Kind of wanted to feel that powerful someday. Especially when the bishop held the tiarra over her head. That was just, to me, a powerful moment."
Ema nodded with a smile. She was starting to sense a common thread about her mother's ceremony.
"I remember seeing it too," Hannah mentioned, "and this may sound a little corny but I remember watching and asking my mother if I could be a princess someday. She told me maybe, maybe I could find a way. That it actually made me feel the need to find a way. And as it happened, that was also roughly around the time a lot of women were getting more into politics in the country. I'd see a lot of powerful women on TV and thought they were really similar in power to the princess and I guess you could say that's what drove me to become one myself."
"That actually sounds sweet," Ema said.
Hannah blushed as Ema's praise. "I think my favorite part was when your mother was crowned. There was just something powerful about that moment."
"That does seem to be the most memorable part," Ema said.
"Ah, ladies welcome," Hikaru said as he suddenly joined them.
"Ah, just the guy we were hoping to see," Erica said as she opened her briefcase and handed him some paperwork. "This should be the rough amount Howie will need to fullfill his new plan."
"New plan?" Ema asked.
"Howie was able to come up with a less expensive idea than moving the building entirely. He's going to build two new complexes on either side and connect them with a sky bridge just over the top of Garden House. Plus he's going to help touch up the orginal Garden House and turn some of the bottom into a muesum or sorts, especially its secret apartment. Mrs. Bubbly and the other residents are happy with proposal."
"That's nice," Ema said happily.
"Hmm, not a bad budget," Hikaru said as he read it over, "Thank you dear Erica."
"No thank you for helping," Erica replied.
"Shall we get going to the House of Council then?" Ukyo asked.
"Sounds good," Erica agreed. Hannah also nodded.
"Do you want to do anything tonight?" Masaomi whispered to Erica as she turned to leave with her colleagues.
"Why don't I come home with your brother and we'll see," Erica whispered back. Masaomi nodded with a smirk as he let her go and watched her leave with Ukyo and Hannah.
"How are you going to help with that building project, Hikaru?" Wataru asked.
"You'll have to wait and see dear Wataru," Hikaru said as he tapped his brother's nose and hurried off with delight.
"Oh mother," Hikaru said as he came into her room, "were you still hoping to help with that building project Masaomi's girlfriend was trying to help with?"
Miwa looked up annoyed at Hikaru's comment.
"Did you just say that to annoy me?" she asked.
"Did it?" Hikaru asked smugly. Miwa groaned mad.
"I don't know why you're so uptight about this woman, she seems nice," Rintaro said looking up from his newspaper.
"I guess," Miwa muttered reluctantly as she stood and walked over to view the paperwork. "Is this the basic budget?"
"According to Masaomi's girlfriend, yes," Hikaru said.
"Thank you," Miwa said as she pushed Hikaru slightly away. "Hmm, this doesn't seem too bad. I can definitely help cover it a little."
"Oh, you're too kind Mummy dear," Hikaru said.
"Are you two going to be able to cover the whole bill?" Rintaro asked.
"Oh not just us, my dear love Heather said she'd help too."
"Is she allowed to?" Miwa asked.
"Oh she has a great career herself, with her own income and everything," Hikaru insisted.
"Well, even with her help, I can help donating to this too," Rintaro offered as he and looked over his wife's shoulder.
"Oh, you're willing to do some dress shopping?" Miwa asked as she walked out with Hikaru.
"Dress shopping?" Rintaro asked as he followed. He paused when he saw Heather suddenly appear and wrap her arms around Hikaru, giving him a kiss.
"My love," she cooed.
"My own," Hikaru replied.
"You two," Miwa muttered with a smirk.
"Oh hello Mother Miwa, did Masaomi's girlfriend come by with the budget for this building project?"
"Yes, we were about to go see Grandfather and Lord Markus to show them," Hikaru said.
"Here's the budget Erica gave us," Miwa said handing it to her.
"Oh, this should be easy to cover," Heather said with delight, "it was nice of Erica to get this figured out for us."
"Yes, she is a very hardworking and dedicated woman," Miwa agreed.
"You know Mother Miwa, forgive me, but I can't help but think that your dislike towards Erica is because possibly being the companion of your oldest, if they were to marry, she'd be a possible rival towars you as queen bee among your sons," Heather mentioned casually.
"You are just as observant as Hikaru, Miss Heather," Miwa said, "I think that may have been my hope he'd end up with Ema. Ema wouldn't have been too much of a rival."
"Well, it's nice you just don't like her merely because she's not a good person and that you can admit to her good qualities," Heather said, givinv Miwa a small hug.
"Thank you Heather," Miwa said with smile. "I've liked you since I've met you."
"Ah, thank you Ma'am," Heather said.
When they came to the king's office door, Hikaru knocked.
"Ah, the dress buyers are here," Richard said as he opened the door for the group.
"What's this about dress shopping?" Rintaro asked again as he followed in.
"...and the look on her face, she was clearly impressed and proud of her mother," Markus was telling the king as they walked in.
"Yes, but showing praise is one thing, being ready is another," King Stephon replied before turning his attention to his guests.
"Hello, good morning, what can I do for my most unique adopted grandson this morning?"
"Miss Tanner brought us the budget for Mr. Holmes' building project," Hikaru said, as Miwa handed the king the paper.
King Stephon and Markus quickly looked it over.
"And you three think you can fit the 'donation' needed for the project?" the king asked.
"Uh 4, your majesty," Rintaro spoke up.
"Rintaro, you're willing to donate money for royal dresses?" King Stephon asked.
"Is that what you're doing?" Rintaro asked.
"We're calling it a charity drive so Hikaru can finally help himself to a few of those royal dresses in storage," Lord Markus explained, "as well as Miss Cook and your own wife."
"Oh, well, I'm still willing to donate and well Hikaru can have my dresses," Rintaro declared.
"Oh my dear stepfather, thank you!" Hikaru said happily.
"Somebody fetch Mrs. Hattie and have her meet us in storage," King Stephon ordered as he stood, "she'll go over the value of the dresses and let you know what they're worth until we've gotten enough 'donation' for this building project."
By the time everyone arraived at the storage room, Ms. Hattie was already there with a maid.
"Good Ms. Hattie, thank you for being so prompt," King Stephon said as he gestured to the door and the maid opened it. "Here is what they are needing for the project."
"Very well, please bring every outfit to me so I can evaluate if it can be donated and how much for," Ms. Hattie instructed.
"This is it Hikaru, your defining moment!" Heather encouraged her boyfriend.
"Oh I feel like a kid in candy store!" Hikaru cheered as he took off in flash.
"There won't be any dresses left by the time we catch up," Miwa said as she and Heather also walked in ansd started to browse.
Rintaro was about to go in too when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned and saw the king motioning him to follow outside.
"Rintaro, it would appear as though Ema is getting eager to go through her princess coronation ceremony. But with the threat of Robert out of the way, I'm not sure we should rush it. As her father and close friend of her biological parents, what do you think? Do you think we should go through with it now or wait?"
"Personally? As a civilian? I think you should, if only to build up moral and not give Robert supporters a chance to try and discredited her and or have other relatives try and intervene. Even when Yolanda was crowned, she still had a long way to go in training before she was fully ready."
King Stephon nodded, "well go ahead and help with the 'donating.' And I shall certainly take your advice into consideration."
"Grandfather, here you are!" Ema said as she came upon him, along with Wataru.
"Hello my dears, my loves!" King Stephon said happily as Wataru ran to him and hugged him.
"Grandfather, I don't know if this a bad time or not but I wanted to say something. Even though the threat's gone and I still have a ways to go, I want to hold my ceremony."
King Stephon smiled and looked at Wataru.
"What do you think Lad?" He asked, "you'll get to wear a nice suit."
"Oh sure," Wataru agreed, "especially if Big Sister gets to wear a pretty dress."
"Well there you have it, Wataru approves, we'll make arrangements to hold your ceremony to make you official," King Stephon agreed, "and you know how much this boy has me wrapprd around his finger."
Watru giggled.
"Thank you Wataru, I was afraid I'd have to have a big argument with Grandfather about it," Ema said, "and I won't let you down. I'll do you and my mother proud."
"You already have," King Stephon assured her.